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Identity theft can be the worst thing you ever had to go through. At their best, credit cards and debit cards are only as safe as you make them, so follow these steps to avoid having your personal information stolen and used to financially ruin you:

Secure your pin number. Memorize it, and don’t write it down. When possible, run your card as “credit” and avoid using your pin.

Keep contact information for all of your lenders on you at all times, separate from your cards. This way, if your cards are stolen, you can quickly report the theft and have the cards canceled.

Sign up for automated alerts from your credit card issuers, and be aware of email scams. Shred paper statements.

If you shop online, make sure your anti-virus on your computer is up to date, and that your online passwords are strong and changed regularly.

Login to view your statements several times a month, and check for charges you didn’t make or fraudulent spending patterns.

Watch anyone who is handling your card. Object if a cashier tries to leave their post with your card, or attempts to slide it into their pocket (“pocket swipers” can read your card info and store it for later fraud.)

Also, if you receive a credit card application in the mail, shred it. Paper applications risk being stolen and altered, so use a secure online application process instead. Following these guidelines can make your credit experience safer and help prevent identity theft.

At Credit Card Applications, we will help you to decide on the right card for your needs. You’ll easily be able to compare the options available, as we present them in a clear and understandable way.

Why choose balance transfer credit cards?

Switching to balance transfer credit cards may be a good option if you have existing debt. You should be able to lower your interest payments this way. Introductory rates can buy you the time to repay your debt effectively.

Using balance transfer credit cards to pay off debt

By transferring your debt to one of these cards, you may be able to dramatically lower the interest you pay in the short term. Many cards come with an introductory 0% rate for a period of time.

If you’re serious about lowering your debt, you can use this time wisely to make regular repayments. If you are disciplined with your repayments, this can be a great way to cut your debt down to size.

How can I be sure a balance transfer credit card is right for me?

First of all, before you apply you should make sure that your credit rating will allow you to be approved for the credit card you want. It’s a fact of life that balance transfer credit card offers are targeted at those with excellent, so try to decide if you can qualify before you apply.

Factors to consider.

APR on balance transfer

APR on new purchases

Length of time introductory rate is in effect

What the rate will be after the introductory rate expires

What the rate will be if you are late on a payment

If you have considered these factors before you apply complete a credit card application you have a greater chance of being happy in the long run.

Tips for success.

Try to have an ‘exit strategy’ so you know what will happen after the introductory rate comes to an end.

Use the credit from your new credit card to pay off high interest debt and not to rack up new spending.

Make your payments on time (to avoid a rate hike)

Stay under your credit limit.

Once you’ve selected a balance transfer card that matches your needs, carefully fill out only one or two applications. Our online application process is fast, so if for some reason you are not approved for your first choice, you can always apply again later.